Eat Well But Don’t Overdo It
Winter is coming! So it is only natural that your body will want to get some reserves for the upcoming season. But if you are like me and are half human and half potato, it might be in your best interest to not get too excited with the sweets and candy, lest you are not able to return to your beach body in time for next summer.
Go Get That D
Autumn is the time of the year where the nights get increasingly longer and the days shorter. This lack of sunlight will most certainly deprive you from much needed vitamin D. This vitamin is good for your bones, skin, and immune system. Lack of D can result in winter depression or, as I like to call it: “The Darkness Syndrome”. Dramatic names aside, the lack of sunlight can impact your mood and energy levels negatively, so take a small trip to the supermarket and get a big bottle of D for those long, dark, and lonely nights.
Be Mindful of Your Shopping
Tuesday afternoon, you’re walking down a supermarket aisle, thinking what to get for dinner. You end up with butter, beer, and 5 kilos of chocolate ice-cream – a typical day or as they say ‘normipäivä’. I’m not judging since I’m all up for stuffing my face with delicious goodies. However, goodies tend to be expensive and then there’s no money left to do cool things like traveling, going out, and saving for a new ice-cream machine. Try making a list of things you need before shopping and stick to it.
Layers, Layers, Layers
Did you know Finland is cold during winter? I’m talking about licking-a-metal-pole-and-getting-your-tongue-stuck cold, not that I would know. The secret to warmth is layers. Layering is an art as much as it is a science, and each person has their own way of doing it. This is my recommendation for extreme cold (-25°C or -13°F): start with an undershirt and undertrousers, followed by t-shirt and trousers. Next, put on a fleece cardigan or pullover, and if necessary add a larger pullover. The last layer can be a ski jacket and pants, as they are trendy and useful. For your feet: two pairs of socks and insulated boots should do the trick. To protect your hands wear undergloves and warm windproof mittens. For your neck, a combination of neck gaiter and a scarf is unbeatable. Finally, a warm headband followed by a beanie will complete your transformation into an unbeatable anti-cold machine. Easy peasy!
Enter Sandman (a.k.a. Nukkumatti)
They say you never forget how to ride a bike. And if you don’t know yet, I would say it’s high time you did. Oulu has one of the best cycling roads in the world, and since the land is relatively flat, it makes the ride much more pleasant. All you need is a pair of wheels, and you are able to explore this beautiful city’s splendor. Just remember to always lock your bike with a sturdy U-lock so you can be sure that your new best friend is safe.
